Electronic device

ABSTRACT

In an electronic device, a socket side first fitting part and a socket side second fitting part, which constitute one shape of a recess and a projection, are formed near a hinge on a principal surface of a socket of a second unit from which a first unit is detachable. In a state in which a principal surface of an input unit and a principal surface of the socket are substantially parallel to each other, an input unit side first fitting part and an input unit side second fitting part, which constitute another shape of the recess and the projection, are formed on the principal surface of the input unit so as to respectively fit to the socket side first fitting part and the socket side second fitting part of the socket.

BACKGROUND 1. Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to an electronic device that includes afirst unit having a display and a second unit having an input part andis constructed such that the first unit and the second unit aredetachable.

2. Description of the Related Art

PTL 1 discloses an electronic device that includes a first unit(portable computer 3) having a display and a second unit (dock seat 1)having an input part and is constructed such that the first unit and thesecond unit are detachable. The second unit includes an input unithaving a principal surface on which the input part is disposed, a socket(rotating frame 2) capable of housing one side of the first unit, and ahinge (first pivotally providing part 13, 14) that couples one side ofthe input unit to one side of the socket such that the input unit andthe socket are relatively rotatable. Further, the principal surface ofthe input unit and a principal surface of the socket are substantiallyparallel to each other by relatively rotating the input unit and thesocket.

CITATION LIST Patent Literature

PTL 1: Unexamined Japanese Patent Publication No. 2005-158013

SUMMARY

The present disclosure provides an electronic device capable ofsuppressing deformation of a socket caused by a shock of falling or thelike.

An electronic device of the present disclosure includes: a first unithaving a display; and a second unit having an input part, and isconstructed such that the first unit and the second unit are detachable.The second unit includes: an input unit having a principal surface onwhich the input part is disposed; a socket capable of housing apredetermined side of the first unit; and a hinge that couples apredetermined side of the input unit to a predetermined side of thesocket such that the input unit and the socket are relatively rotatable.The principal surface of the input unit and a principal surface of thesocket are substantially parallel to each other by relatively rotatingthe input unit and the socket. A socket side fitting part, whichconstitutes one shape of a recess and a projection, is formed on theprincipal surface of the socket near the hinge. An input unit sidefitting part, which constitutes another shape of the recess and theprojection, is formed on the principal surface of the input unit so asto fit to the socket side fitting part of the socket in a state in whichthe principal surface of the input unit and the principal surface of thesocket are substantially parallel to each other.

According to the present disclosure, the input unit side fitting part onthe principal surface of the input unit is fit to the socket sidefitting part of the socket in a state in which the principal surface ofthe input unit and the principal surface of the socket are substantiallyparallel to each other. Consequently, in a case where the electronicdevice falls when the one side of the first unit is housed in the socketof the second unit, a load of the first unit and a shock caused byvibrations of the first unit within the socket can be dispersed to thesecond unit through the socket side fitting part and the input unit sidefitting part. As a result, the shock applied to a portion of the socketcoupled to the hinge and a portion nearby can be reduced. Hence,deformation of the socket caused by the shock can be suppressed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a front side of an electronic deviceaccording to a present exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a back side of the electronic deviceaccording to the present exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 2B is a perspective view showing a state in which a first unit anda second unit of the electronic device according to the presentexemplary embodiment are closed;

FIG. 3A is a front view of the electronic device according to thepresent exemplary embodiment (a state in which the first unit is fittedto the second unit);

FIG. 3B is a front view of the electronic device according to thepresent exemplary embodiment (a state in which the first unit isdetached from the second unit);

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the first unit (a tablet type computer)of the electronic device according to the present exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view of an engageable part of thefirst unit of the electronic device according to the present exemplaryembodiment;

FIG. 6 is a sectional view taken along line 6-6 in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a socket of the second unit included inthe electronic device according to the present exemplary embodiment (astate in which an engaging member is located at a first rotationalposition);

FIG. 7B is an enlarged perspective view of the engaging member of thesocket of the second unit included in the electronic device according tothe present exemplary embodiment (the state in which the engaging memberis located at the first rotational position);

FIG. 8A is a perspective view of the socket of the second unit includedin the electronic device according to the present exemplary embodiment(a state in which the engaging member is located at a second rotationalposition);

FIG. 8B is an enlarged perspective view of the engaging member of thesocket of the second unit included in the electronic device according tothe present exemplary embodiment (the state in which the engaging memberis located at the second rotational position);

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a socket body of the electronic deviceaccording to the present exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 9B is a side view of the socket body of the electronic deviceaccording to the present exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 10 is a sectional view taken along line 10-10 in FIG. 7A (membersare partially omitted);

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of socket side components of lockmechanism components included in the electronic device according to thepresent exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 12A is a perspective view of the socket side components of the lockmechanism components included in the electronic device according to thepresent exemplary embodiment (the state in which the engaging member islocated at the first rotational position);

FIG. 12B is a plan view of the socket side components of the lockmechanism components included in the electronic device according to thepresent exemplary embodiment (the state in which the engaging member islocated at the first rotational position);

FIG. 12C is a sectional view taken along line 12C-12C in FIG. 12B;

FIG. 12D is a perspective view of the socket side components of the lockmechanism components included in the electronic device according to thepresent exemplary embodiment (the state in which the engaging member islocated at the second rotational position);

FIG. 12E is a plan view of the socket side components of the lockmechanism components included in the electronic device according to thepresent exemplary embodiment (the state in which the engaging member islocated at the second rotational position);

FIG. 12F is a sectional view taken along line 12F-12F in FIG. 12E;

FIG. 13A is a front view of the engaging member that configures the lockmechanism of the electronic device according to the present exemplaryembodiment;

FIG. 13B is a side view of the engaging member that configures the lockmechanism of the electronic device according to the present exemplaryembodiment;

FIG. 13C is a plan view of the engaging member that configures the lockmechanism of the electronic device according to the present exemplaryembodiment;

FIG. 13D is a perspective view, as seen from below, of a support member,the engaging member, and a spring that configure the lock mechanism ofthe electronic device according to the present exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 13E is a bottom view of the support member, the engaging member,and the spring that configure the lock mechanism of the electronicdevice according to the present exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 14A is a sectional view taken along line 14A-14A in FIG. 12B;

FIG. 14B is a sectional view taken along line 14B-14B in FIG. 12E;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a coupling member, an operating member,and the engaging member that configure the lock mechanism of theelectronic device according to the present exemplary embodiment (a statein which the operating member is located at a first position and theengaging member is located at the first rotational position);

FIG. 16A is a plan view for explaining an engagement state by the lockmechanism of the electronic device according to the present exemplaryembodiment;

FIG. 16B is a sectional view taken along line 16B-16B in FIG. 16A (aview in which the engageable part is added to the sectional view of FIG.14A);

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the coupling member, the operatingmember, and the engaging member that configure the lock mechanism of theelectronic device according to the present exemplary embodiment (a statein which the operating member is located at a second position and theengaging member is located at the second rotational position);

FIG. 18A is a plan view for explaining a state in which the engagementby the lock mechanism of the electronic device according to the presentexemplary embodiment is released;

FIG. 18B is a sectional view taken along line 18B-18B in FIG. 18A (aview in which the engageable part is added to the sectional view of FIG.14B);

FIG. 19A is a plan view of the socket body, the coupling member, and thespring that configure the lock mechanism of the electronic deviceaccording to the present exemplary embodiment (the state in which theoperating member is located at the first position);

FIG. 19B is a sectional view taken along line 19B-19B in FIG. 19A;

FIG. 20 is an enlarged view of a portion shown by arrow H in FIG. 19B;

FIG. 21A is a view for explaining a state of a connector pin in a statein which the first unit is attached to the socket in the electronicdevice according to the present exemplary embodiment (a sectional viewidentical to the sectional view in FIG. 10);

FIG. 21B is a view for explaining a state in which the first unitattached to the socket is lifted by biasing force of the connector pinduring unlocking in the electronic device according to the presentexemplary embodiment (a sectional view identical to the sectional viewin FIG. 10);

FIG. 22 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion near a hinge of thesecond unit;

FIG. 23A is a view seen in a direction of arrow J in FIG. 2B(simplified);

FIG. 23B is a view seen in a direction of arrow K in FIG. 2B(simplified);

FIG. 24A is a sectional view taken along line 24A-24A in FIG. 23A;

FIG. 24B is a sectional view taken along line 24B-24B in FIG. 23A;

FIG. 25A is a perspective view, as seen from a bottom side, of thesocket for explaining a through-hole for draining water of the socket ofthe electronic device according to the present exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 25B is a plan view, as seen from an opening end side, of the singlesocket body for explaining the through-hole for draining water of thesocket of the electronic device according to the present exemplaryembodiment;

FIG. 26 is a sectional view taken along line 26-26 in FIG. 25B;

FIG. 27A is a view for explaining action by the through-hole fordraining water of the socket of the electronic device according to thepresent exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 27B is a view for explaining the action by the through-hole fordraining water of the socket of the electronic device according to thepresent exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 27C is a view for explaining the action by the through-hole fordraining water of the socket of the electronic device according to thepresent exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 28A is a perspective view, as seen from a connection end side, ofan antenna connector in the electronic device according to the presentexemplary embodiment;

FIG. 28B is a perspective view, as seen from a base side, of the antennaconnector in the electronic device according to the present exemplaryembodiment;

FIG. 29 is a longitudinal sectional view of the antenna connector in theelectronic device according to the present exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 30 is a cross sectional view of the antenna connector in theelectronic device according to the present exemplary embodiment; and

FIG. 31 is a view for explaining action of the antenna connector in theelectronic device according to the present exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments are described in detail withreference to the drawings as appropriate. However, detailed descriptionbeyond necessity may be omitted. For example, detailed description of amatter that has been already known well or overlapping description ofsubstantially the same configuration may be omitted. This is to avoidunnecessary redundancy of the following description and to facilitateunderstanding by those skilled in the art.

Note that the inventor of the present disclosure provides the attacheddrawings and the following description for those skilled in the art tofully understand the present disclosure, and do not intend to limit thesubject matter as described in the appended claims by these drawings anddescription.

First Exemplary Embodiment

Hereinafter, a first exemplary embodiment is described with reference tothe drawings.

1. Configuration 1-1. Summary of Electronic Device

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a front side of electronic device 1according to the present exemplary embodiment. FIG. 1 shows an externalappearance of a state in which electronic device 1 is opened. FIG. 2A isa perspective view of a back side of electronic device 1 according tothe present exemplary embodiment. FIG. 2B is a perspective view showinga state in which first unit 100 and second unit 200 of electronic device1 according to the present exemplary embodiment are closed. It should benoted that a definition of a direction of each device, unit, or the likeis described in FIG. 1 or the like. Width directions of electronicdevice 1, first unit 100, second unit 200, input unit 300, and socket400 are identical, and may be simply referred to as the “widthdirection” hereinafter. It should be noted that a rotating axial centerdirection of hinge 500 is parallel to the width direction in the presentexemplary embodiment. A definition of a direction of a unit to beexplained is described in the respective drawings other than FIG. 1. Itshould be noted that the definition is for convenience of explanation tofacilitate understanding. An absolute arrangement condition and adirection of a component when the component is used are not defined.

As shown in FIG. 1, electronic device 1 includes first unit 100 (atablet type computer), and second unit 200 (a unit having keyboard 301and the like). First unit 100 and second unit 200 are detachable. Withthis configuration, electronic device 1 is constituted as a so-calleddetachable type computer. FIGS. 3A and 3B are front views of electronicdevice 1 according to the present exemplary embodiment. Specifically,FIG. 3A shows a state in which first unit 100 is attached to second unit200, and FIG. 3B shows a state in which first unit 100 is detached fromsecond unit 200.

As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3B, first unit 100 is the tablet type computer.First unit 100 has display 101 on first principal surface 100 a (asurface on a front side in a thickness direction). Display 101 is, forexample, a liquid crystal display panel. Further, display 101 is a touchpanel capable of receiving touch operation by a user. First unit 100incorporates a central processing unit (CPU), a volatile storage (RAM),a nonvolatile storage (ROM, SSD, or the like), a battery, and the like.Second principal surface 100 b (a surface on a back side in thethickness direction) has detachable cover 102. The nonvolatile storage(ROM, SSD, or the like) stores an operating system (OS), variousapplication programs, various data, and the like. The central processingunit (CPU) executes arithmetic processing by reading the OS, theapplication programs, and the various data, thereby realizing variousfunctions.

Second unit 200 includes an input part through which the user canperform input processing. First unit 100 is detachable from second unit200. Second unit 200 includes input unit 300, socket 400, and hinge 500.

A casing of input unit 300 is formed of metal such as magnesium alloy,or resin. The input part including keyboard 301, touch pad 302, aplurality of operation buttons 303, and the like is provided onprincipal surface 300 a of input unit 300 (a surface on the front sidein the thickness direction).

Socket 400 is capable of housing side 100S on a lower side in an up anddown direction of first unit 100 (a predetermined side of the firstunit, and hereinafter appropriately referred to as “lower side 100S”).

Hinge 500 couples side 300S on a rear side in a depth direction of inputunit 300 (a predetermined side of the input unit, and hereinafterappropriately referred to as “rear side 300S”) to side 400S on a lowerside in an up and down direction of socket 400 (a predetermined side ofthe socket, and hereinafter appropriately referred to as “lower side400S”), such that input unit 300 and socket 400 are relativelyrotatable. Hinge 500 has rotating axial center HC parallel to the widthdirection of electronic device 1. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and2A, hinge 500 can hold first unit 100 and second unit 200 in a state inwhich first unit 100 and second unit 200 are opened at an angle of, forexample, about 100 degrees. Further, hinge 500 can make first unit 100in a closed state with respect to second unit 200 (a state in whichfirst principal surface 100 a of first unit 100 and principal surface300 a of input unit 300 of second unit 200 are closely opposed andsubstantially parallel to each other).

Socket 400 is provided with connector 460 (see FIG. 7A) to be connectedwith connector 120 (see FIG. 4) of first unit 100 in a state in whichlower side 100S of first unit 100 is housed. Various signals andelectric power are given and received between first unit 100 and secondunit 200 via connector 120 and connector 460. For example, signalsoutput from the input part including keyboard 301, touch pad 302, theplurality of operation buttons 303, and the like, of input unit 300 ofsecond unit 200 can be output to first unit 100. First unit 100 canreceive these signals and perform control based on the received signals.Therefore, electronic device 1 can be utilized as a notebook typecomputer by attaching first unit 100 to second unit 200. Further, firstunit 100 can be utilized alone as a tablet type computer.

1-2. Configuration of Lock Mechanism

Electronic device 1 of the present exemplary embodiment has a lockmechanism for preventing detachment of first unit 100 from second unit200 in a state in which first unit 100 is attached to second unit 200 (acoupled state). In other words, electronic device 1 has the lockmechanism capable of locking first unit 100 and second unit 200 in thecoupled state. The lock mechanism is described below in detail.

1-2-1. Configuration of Lock Mechanism Components on First Unit Side

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of first unit 100 (the tablet typecomputer) of electronic device 1 according to the present exemplaryembodiment. Lower side 100S of first unit 100 is provided withengageable part 110 serving as the lock mechanism component on firstunit 100 side. Engageable part 110 can be engaged with engaging member443 of engaging part 440 (see FIGS. 7A and 7B) that constitutes the lockmechanism on second unit 200 side. Two engageable parts 110 are providedon lower side 100S at intervals in the width direction of first unit100.

FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view of engageable part 110 of firstunit 100 included in electronic device 1 according to the presentexemplary embodiment. FIG. 6 is a sectional view taken along line 6-6 inFIG. 5. As shown in these drawings, engageable part 110 is constitutedas a recess capable of engaging with engaging member 443 describedbelow. First unit 100 has metal frame 121 and resinous side cover 122.Frame 121 is a member that constitutes a part of a framework and anouter surface of first unit 100. Side cover 122 is a frame-shaped memberthat covers an outer surface of lower side 100S of first unit 100. Frame121 has recess 121 a, and side cover 122 has opening 122 a. Metalprotection member 123 is mounted on an inner surface of recess 121 a offrame 121. Protection member 123 is provided with engagement hole 123 acapable of engaging with one of a pair of engaging projections 443 a(see FIG. 7B), which is described below, of engaging member 443.Further, engagement recess 121 b capable of engaging with anotherengaging projection 443 a of engaging member 443 is provided withinrecess 121 a of frame 121. Here, it is desirable that protection member123 be made of a stainless material rather than a magnesium material toprevent scraping.

1-2-2. Configurations of Lock Mechanism Components on Second Unit Sideand of Socket 1-2-2-1. Configuration of Socket

The lock mechanism components on second unit 200 side are housed insocket 400. FIGS. 7A and 7B are external views of socket 400 ofelectronic device 1 according to the present exemplary embodiment (astate in which engaging member 443 is located at a first rotationalposition). Specifically, FIG. 7A is a perspective view of socket 400,and FIG. 7B is an enlarged perspective view of engaging member 443portion. FIGS. 8A and 8B are external views of socket 400 of electronicdevice 1 according to the present exemplary embodiment (a state in whichengaging member 443 is located at a second rotational position).Specifically, FIG. 8A is a perspective view of socket 400, and FIG. 8Bis an enlarged perspective view of engaging member 443 portion.

Socket 400 has socket body 410, operating member 420, engaging part 440having engaging member 443, and drive mechanism 430 (see FIG. 11).

Socket 400 has a boat shape extending in the width direction ofelectronic device 1, and has recess 400 y capable of fitting lower side100S of first unit 100.

As described below, engaging part 440 is configured so as to beengageable with engageable part 110 of lower side 100S of first unit100. As described below in detail, engaging member 443 is configured soas to be rotatable around rotating axial center RC (an axial center ofrotating shaft 443 b) parallel to the up and down direction of socket400. Two engaging members 443 are provided on an upper surface of baseplate 431 a of support member 431 at intervals in the width direction ofsocket 400. When lower side 100S of first unit 100 is fitted in socket400, two engaging members 443 are disposed in positional relationscapable of engaging with engageable parts 110 of first unit 100.Engaging member 443 is disposed so as to protrude further upward thanthe upper surface of base plate 431 a of support member 431 (apredetermined surface of the second unit).

When operating member 420 is located at a first position shown in FIG.7A (a predetermined position on a left side in the width direction),engaging member 443 is rotated to the first rotational position (aposition at which engaging projection 443 a of engaging member 443protrudes from engaging member support part 431 b of support member 431to the front side and the back side in the thickness direction).Engaging member 443 is engaged with engaged part 110. Further, whenoperating member 420 is located at a second position shown in FIG. 8A (apredetermined position on a right side in the width direction), engagingmember 443 is rotated to the second rotational position (a position atwhich engaging projection 443 a of engaging member 443 does not protrudefrom engaging member support part 431 b of support member 431 in thethickness direction). The engagement with engaged part 110 is released.

1-2-2-2. Socket Body

FIGS. 9A and 9B are external views of socket body 410 of electronicdevice 1 according to the present exemplary embodiment. Specifically,FIG. 9A is a perspective view of socket body 410, and FIG. 9B is a sideview of socket body 410.

Socket body 410 has a boat shape, and houses drive mechanism 430 (seeFIG. 11). Socket body 410 is formed of resin. It should be noted thatsocket body 410 may be formed of metal, such as magnesium alloy.

FIG. 10 is a sectional view taken along line 10-10 in FIG. 7A (membersare partially omitted). FIG. 10 shows a shape of a cross sectionperpendicular to the width direction (a longitudinal direction, anextending direction) of socket 400 at a position on line 10-10. Itshould be noted that in the present exemplary embodiment, the widthdirections, the longitudinal directions, and the extending directions ofsocket 400, lower side 100S, and rear side 300S are an identicaldirection. In order to facilitate understanding, a term indicating anyof the directions is appropriately used according to a content ofexplanation of each member. Socket body 410 has first outer wall 410 aand second outer wall 410 b. In a state in which lower side 100S offirst unit 100 is housed in socket 400, first outer wall 410 a isextended parallel to the extending direction of lower side 100S of firstunit 100 (see FIG. 9A), and is parallel to first principal surface 100 aof first unit 100. First outer wall 410 a supports lower side 100S sideof first principal surface 100 a. In the housed state, second outer wall410 b is extended parallel to the extending direction of lower side 100Sof first unit 100 (see FIG. 9B), and is parallel to second principalsurface 100 b (the surface on the back side) of first unit 100. Secondouter wall 410 b supports lower side 100S side of second principalsurface 100 b. A shape of a cross section of socket body 410perpendicular to the extending direction is a substantially U shape.

According to the configuration, first unit 100 is supported in a statein which lower side 100S side of first principal surface 100 a and lowerside 100S side of second principal surface 100 b are sandwiched betweenfirst outer wall 410 a and second outer wall 410 b of socket 400.

Here, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, on lower side 100S side located belowdisplay 101 on first principal surface 100 a of first unit 100,operation switches 103 and indicators 104 are disposed on a central sidein the width direction of socket 400 (at a portion other than end sidesin the extending direction). Accordingly, at this portion, it isnecessary that a length in an up and down direction (a height) of firstouter wall 410 a is set to a height that does not interfere withoperation switches 103 and indicators 104, and a sufficient heightcannot be secured.

Therefore, in present exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9B, insocket body 410, length L1 is a length of first outer wall 410 a andsecond outer wall 410 b in the up and down direction (a directionperpendicular to the extending direction) of socket 400 on the end sidesin the width direction (the extending direction) of socket 400. LengthL2 is a length of first outer wall 410 a and second outer wall 410 b inthe up and down direction of the portion other than the end sides in thewidth direction (the extending direction) of socket 400. Length L1 isset longer than length L2.

With this configuration, on lower side 100S side of first principalsurface 100 a of first unit 100, even in a case where operation switches103 (a second operation part) and/or indicators 104 are disposed on thecentral side in the width direction, first unit 100 can be supported atupper positions on the end sides in the width direction by first outerwall 410 a and second outer wall 410 b. Therefore, a support state offirst unit 100 housed in socket 400 of second unit 200 can bestabilized.

Further, as shown in FIG. 7A, socket body 410 has third outer wall 410 cand fourth outer wall 410 d. Third outer wall 410 c couples a right endin the width direction (the extending direction) of first outer wall 410a to a right end in the width direction of second outer wall 410 b.Fourth outer wall 410 d couples a left end in the width direction offirst outer wall 410 a to a left end in the width direction of secondouter wall 410 b.

This improves strength of socket 400 (socket body 410). For example,falling of first outer wall 410 a and second outer wall 410 b indirections separating from each other can be suppressed. As a result,the support state of first unit 100 attached to socket 400 of secondunit 200 can be further stabilized.

1-2-2-3. Operating Member

Operating member 420 is a member for receiving unlock operation by theuser. Operating member 420 is formed of resin. It should be noted thatoperating member 420 may be formed of metal, such as magnesium alloy.Operating member 420 is supported by socket 400 such that operatingmember 420 is linearly movable with respect to socket body 410 betweenthe first position and the second position in the width direction ofsocket 400.

As shown in FIG. 10 mentioned above, operating member 420 has operatingpart 420 a having a surface parallel to first outer wall 410 a of socketbody 410 and coupling part 420 b coupled to coupling member 433. A shapeof a cross section of operating member 420 perpendicular to the widthdirection (the extending direction) of socket 400 is a substantially Lshape. Accordingly, for example, when the user opens first unit 100 withrespect to second unit 200 as shown in FIG. 1 to operate electronicdevice 1, the user can operate operating part 420 a from first principalsurface 100 a side provided with display 101 that the user faces.

1-2-2-4. Engaging Member and Drive Mechanism

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of socket 400 side components of lockmechanism components of electronic device 1 according to the presentexemplary embodiment.

Socket 400 side components of the lock mechanism components areaforementioned operating member 420, engaging member 443, and drivemechanism 430.

1-2-2-4-1. Drive Mechanism

Drive mechanism 430 rotates engaging member 443 to the first rotationalposition when operating member 420 is moved to the first position shownin FIG. 7A. Drive mechanism 430 rotates engaging member 443 to thesecond rotational position when operating member 420 is moved to thesecond position shown in FIG. 8A. In other words, drive mechanism 430converts the linear movement of operating member 420 between the firstposition and the second position into the rotation of engaging member443 between the first rotational position and the second rotationalposition.

Drive mechanism 430 has support member 431, base member 432, couplingmember 433, first spring 434 (see FIGS. 19A and 19B), and second spring451 (see FIG. 18B).

FIGS. 12A to 12C are external views of socket 400 side components(members are partially omitted) of the lock mechanism components ofelectronic device 1 according to the present exemplary embodiment (astate in which the engaging member is located at the first rotationalposition). Specifically, FIG. 12A is a perspective view, FIG. 12B is aplan view, and FIG. 12C is a sectional view taken along line 12C-12C inFIG. 12B. FIGS. 12D to 12F are external views of the socket sidecomponents (members are partially omitted) of the lock mechanismcomponents of the electronic device according to the present exemplaryembodiment (a state in which the engaging member is located at thesecond rotational position). Specifically, FIG. 12D is a perspectiveview, FIG. 12E is a plan view, and FIG. 12F is a sectional view takenalong line 12F-12F in FIG. 12E.

Coupling member 433 is a plate-shaped member that extends along thewidth direction of socket 400, and is fixed to operating member 420. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 10, projection 433 g that protrudes downwardis fitted into coupling hole 420 c of coupling part 420 b of operatingmember 420. Accordingly, coupling member 433 is fixed to operatingmember 420. Coupling member 433 is supported by socket body 410 so as tobe movable along a moving direction of operating member 420 (the widthdirection of socket 400). Coupling member 433 is, for example, formed ofresin. It should be noted that coupling member 433 may be formed ofmetal if a sliding ability substantially equal to a sliding ability ofthe resin is secured.

Coupling member 433 has groove 433 a (433 b), with which engaging shaft443 g of engaging member 443 is engaged relatively movably (see FIGS. 15and 17).

Groove 433 a (433 b) is formed in a meandering manner. When operatingmember 420 is moved to the first position as shown in FIG. 15, engagingmember 443 is rotated to the first rotational position around rotatingaxial center RC (the axial center of rotating shaft 443 b). Whenoperating member 420 is moved to the second position as shown in FIG.17, engaging member 443 is rotated to the second rotational positionaround rotating axial center RC. Specifically, groove 433 a is formedinto a substantially inverted S shape such that a left end in the widthdirection is located on the further front side than other portions inthe thickness direction and that a right end in the width direction islocated on the further back side than the other portions in thethickness direction. On the other hand, groove 433 b is formed into asubstantially S shape such that a left end in the width direction islocated on the further back side than other parts in the thicknessdirection and that a right end in the width direction is located on thefurther front side than the other parts in the thickness direction.

Returning to FIGS. 12A and 12B, base member 432 is a member that extendsalong the width direction of socket 400, and is fixed to socket body410. Base member 432 is, for example, formed of resin. Base member 432has rotation center shaft 432 a and rotation regulating wall 432 b.

Rotation center shaft 432 a is inserted into shaft hole 443 f formed ata lower part of engaging member 443, and supports engaging member 443 atits lower side so as to be rotatable.

Rotation regulating wall 432 b abuts on arm 443 h formed at the lowerpart of engaging member 443 during rotation of engaging member 443.Accordingly, the rotation of engaging member 443 is regulated within arange between the first rotational position and the second rotationalposition.

Returning to FIG. 7A, support member 431 is disposed on each of theright and left end sides in the width direction of socket 400. Right andleft support members 431 have a symmetrical structure. Each supportmember 431 is a plate-shaped member that extends along the widthdirection of socket 400. Each support member 431 is fixed to socket body410. Support member 431 is, for example, formed of metal. Each supportmember 431 has base plate 431 a, engaging member support part 431 b, andengaging member arrangement hole 431 d.

Base plate 431 a is mounted on base member 432, and is fixed to basemember 432 and socket body 410 by using a screw (not shown).

Engaging member arrangement hole 431 d is a hole that penetrates baseplate 431 a in the up and down direction of socket 400, and is disposedsuch that an upper side of engaging member 443 is rotatable. With thisconfiguration, the upper side of engaging member 443 protrudes furtherupward than the upper surface of base plate 431 a.

Engaging member support part 431 b is stood on base plate 431 a overengaging member arrangement hole 431 d in the width direction. Engagingmember support part 431 b has a gate shape. Engaging member support part431 b has insertion hole 431 c that penetrates in the up and downdirection of socket 400. Rotating shaft 443 b of engaging member 443 isinserted into insertion hole 431 c. With this configuration, engagingmember support part 431 b supports the upper side of engaging member 443such that engaging member 443 is rotatable around rotating shaft 443 b.

FIGS. 19A and 19B are external views of the socket body, the couplingmember, and the spring that configure the lock mechanism of theelectronic device according to the present exemplary embodiment.Specifically, FIG. 19A is a plan view when the operating member islocated at the first position, and FIG. 19B is a sectional view takenalong line 19B-19B in FIG. 19A. FIG. 20 is an enlarged view of a portionshown by arrow H in FIG. 19B.

First spring 434 is housed in spring housing 433 d of coupling member433. One end of first spring 434 is locked to spring lock part 433 e ofcoupling member 433, and another end of first spring 434 is locked tospring lock part 415 of socket body 410. First spring 434 biasescoupling member 433 and operating member 420 fixed to coupling member433 to the first position side in the width direction of the device.

A configuration of second spring 451 is described below.

1-2-2-4-2. Engaging Member

FIGS. 13A to 13C are external views of engaging member 443 thatconfigures the lock mechanism of electronic device 1 according to thepresent exemplary embodiment. Specifically, FIG. 13A is a front view,FIG. 13B is a side view, and FIG. 13C is a plan view.

As shown in FIGS. 13A to 13C, engaging member 443 has aforementionedrotating shaft 443 b, engaging body 443 c, fitting projection 443 j,tubular part 443 e, arm 443 h, and engaging shaft 443 g in this orderfrom the top.

Rotating shaft 443 b is provided on an upper end side of engaging member443.

Engaging body 443 c has a pair of engaging projections 443 a formed soas to protrude opposite to each other in a radial direction acrossrotating shaft 443 b. Engaging projection 443 a is formed by cutting offsides of a cylindrical object in parallel across rotating shaft 443 b(rotating axial center RC), and further, regarding a portion other thanvicinity of the upper surface, by scraping off the portion outside inthe radial direction of lines indicated by L.

Tubular part 443 e has shaft hole 443 f that opens at a lower end. Anaxial center of shaft hole 443 f is formed coaxially with the axialcenter of rotating shaft 443 b.

Arm 443 h extends from the lower end of tubular part 443 e outward inthe radial direction.

Engaging shaft 443 g extends downward from an outer end in the radialdirection of arm 443 h and parallel to rotating shaft 443 b (rotatingaxial center RC).

Fitting projection 443 j is formed at an upper end of tubular part 443 eso as to protrude in the radial direction. As seen from FIG. 13C,fitting projection 443 j of engaging member 443 viewed in the axialdirection has a shape in which sides of a disc are cut off in parallelacross rotating axial center RC.

FIGS. 13D and 13E are external views of support member 431, engagingmember 443, and second spring 451 that configure the lock mechanism ofthe electronic device according to the present exemplary embodiment.Specifically, FIG. 13D is a perspective view seen from below, and FIG.13E is a bottom view.

A lower surface of support member 431 is provided with first fittingrecess 431 e and second fitting recess 431 f.

A shape of first fitting recess 431 e is circular as viewed from a lowersurface side. A diameter of the circle of first fitting recess 431 e isset slightly larger than a diameter of fitting projection 443 j ofengaging member 443. Engaging member 443 is rotatable around therotating axial center in a state in which fitting projection 443 j ofengaging member 443 is fitted into first fitting recess 431 e.

Second fitting recess 431 f, as viewed from the lower surface side, hasa shape substantially identical to the shape of fitting projection 443 jof engaging member 443, as viewed in the rotating axial centerdirection. A dimension of second fitting recess 431 f is set slightlylarger than a dimension of fitting projection 443 j of engaging member443. When engaging member 443 is located at the second rotationalposition, fitting projection 443 j of engaging member 443 can be fittedinto second fitting recess 431 f. In other words, in a state in whichfitting projection 443 j of engaging member 443 is fitted into secondfitting recess 431 f, engaging member 443 cannot be rotated aroundrotating axial center RC. It should be noted that FIGS. 13D and 13E showa state in which fitting projection 443 j of engaging member 443 islocated within first fitting recess 431 e and engaging member 443 isslightly rotated from the first rotational position to the secondrotational position.

FIG. 14A is a sectional view taken along line 14A-14A in FIG. 12B. FIG.14A shows a state in which operating member 420 is located at the firstposition and engaging member 443 is located at the first rotationalposition. FIG. 14B is a sectional view taken along line 14B-14B in FIG.12E. FIG. 14B shows a state in which operating member 420 is located atthe second position and engaging member 443 is located at the secondrotational position. It should be noted that, for convenience ofexplanation, the members shown in FIGS. 12A to 12F are also added tothese drawings. In engaging member 443, rotating shaft 443 b is insertedinto insertion hole 431 c. Further, shaft hole 443 f is fitted torotation center shaft 432 a of base member 432. As mentioned above, theaxial center of shaft hole 443 f is formed coaxially with the axialcenter of rotating shaft 443 b. Accordingly, engaging member 443 isrotatable with the centers of rotating shaft 443 b and shaft hole 443 fserving as rotating axial center RC (the center).

Second spring 451 is constituted by a coil spring, and rotation centershaft 432 a of base member 432 is inserted through second spring 451.One end of second spring 451 abuts on bottom surface 432 c of basemember 432, and another end of second spring 451 abuts on springabutment part 443 k formed to have a difference in level in shaft hole443 f of engaging member 443. Second spring 451 biases engaging member443 to a second axial center direction position side in rotating axialcenter RC direction.

Returning to FIG. 10, connector 460 has connector body 462 and connectorpin 461. A plurality of connector pins 461 are arranged in parallel inthe extending direction of socket 400 (the width direction of thedevice) (see FIG. 7A). In the present exemplary embodiment, about 20connector pins 461 are arranged.

Connector pin 461 has base 461 b and electrode 461 a. Base 461 b extendssubstantially linearly in the up and down direction, and an end of base461 b abuts on pin support part 462 a of connector body 462. Electrode461 a is a part that comes into contact with an electrode of connector120 of first unit 100. Electrode 461 a extends from another end side ofbase 461 b, and is formed in a gently bent spring shape. Connector pin461 is formed by using an elastic material. When the electrode ofconnector 120 of first unit 100 is pressed against electrode 461 a, anupper side of electrode 461 a is elastically deformed and presseddownward. Accordingly, in a state in which first unit 100 is attached tosocket 400, the plurality of connector pins 461 are biased in adirection in which first unit 100 is detached from socket 400 (upward).Biasing force has a magnitude enough to be capable of lifting up firstunit 100 that is fitted to but is not locked with socket 400.

1-2-2-4-3. Action of Lock Mechanism

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of coupling member 433, operating member420, and engaging member 443 that configure the lock mechanism ofelectronic device 1 according to the present exemplary embodiment.Specifically, FIG. 15 is the perspective view when operating member 420is located at the first position and engaging member 443 is located atthe first rotational position. FIGS. 16A and 16B are views forexplaining an engagement state by a lock mechanism on a right side inthe width direction of the lock mechanism of electronic device 1according to the present exemplary embodiment. Specifically, FIG. 16A isa plan view for explaining the engagement state, and FIG. 16B is asectional view taken along line 16B-16B in FIG. 16A.

As shown in FIG. 15, when operating member 420 is located at the firstposition, engaging shafts 443 g of engaging member 443 are respectivelylocated on right end sides of grooves 433 a, 433 b of coupling member433. Also, when engaging shaft 443 g is rotated to the front side in thethickness direction through groove 433 b, engaging member 443 on theright side in the width direction is located at the first rotationalposition. When engaging shaft 443 g is rotated to the back side in thethickness direction through groove 433 a, engaging member 443 on theleft side in the width direction is located at the first rotationalposition. At this time, as shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B, engagingprojection 443 a of engaging member 443 engages with engagement recess121 b of engageable part 110 of first unit 100. With this configuration,first unit 100 is locked to socket 400. At this time, an upper end ofrotating shaft 443 b of engaging member 443 abuts on plane 123 b ofprotection member 123 included in engagement recess 121 b of first unit100. Accordingly, engaging member 443 is pressed downward against thebiasing force of second spring 451, and is located at a first axialcenter direction position. Further, fitting projection 443 j is fittedinto first fitting recess 431 e of support member 431.

When operating member 420 is moved from this first position to thesecond position, a state shown in FIGS. 17, 18A, and 18B is reached.FIG. 17 is a perspective view of coupling member 433, operating member420, and engaging member 443 that configure the lock mechanism ofelectronic device 1 according to the present exemplary embodiment.Specifically, FIG. 17 is the perspective view when operating member 420is located at the second position and engaging member 443 is located atthe second rotational position. FIGS. 18A and 18B are views forexplaining a state in which the engagement by the lock mechanism on theright side in the width direction of the lock mechanism of electronicdevice 1 according to the present exemplary embodiment is released.Specifically, FIG. 18A is a plan view for explaining the state in whichthe engagement is released, and FIG. 18B is a sectional view taken alongline 18B-18B in FIG. 18A.

As shown in FIG. 17, when operating member 420 is located at the secondposition, engaging shafts 443 g of engaging member 443 are respectivelylocated on left end sides of grooves 433 a, 433 b of coupling member433. Also, when engaging shaft 443 g is rotated to the back side in thethickness direction through groove 433 b, engaging member 443 on theright side in the width direction is located at the second rotationalposition. When engaging shaft 443 g is rotated to the front side in thethickness direction through groove 433 a, engaging member 443 on theleft side in the width direction is located at the second rotationalposition. At this time, as shown in FIGS. 18A and 18B, the engagementbetween engaging projection 443 a of engaging member 443 and engagementrecess 121 b of engageable part 110 of first unit 100 is released. Withthis configuration, first unit 100 is unlocked from socket 400, andfirst unit 100 can be detached from second unit 200.

Here, first unit 100 is biased upward through connector 120 of firstunit 100 by connector pins 461 of connector 460 of socket 400.Accordingly, unlocked first unit 100 is pressed upward with biasingforce of connector pins 461. Further, engaging member 443 is biasedupward with the biasing force of second spring 451, and is located atthe second rotational position. Further, since first unit 100 is biasedupward, engaging member 443 is pressed upward (at the second axialcenter direction position) with the biasing force of second spring 451,and fitting projection 443 j is fitted into second fitting recess 431 fof support member 431. With this configuration, the rotation of engagingmember 443 around the rotating axial center is regulated. Accordingly,an unlocked state between engaging member 443 and engageable part 110 ismaintained. As a result, it is not necessary for the user tocontinuously grip operating member 420 in a state in which operatingmember 420 is moved to the second position (an unlocked position) side.Hence, there is no need to draw out first unit 100 from socket 400 withone hand while holding operating member 420 at the second position (theunlocked position) with another hand. In other words, there is no needto perform detachment with both hands. Further, since operating member420 is maintained at the second position (the unlocked position), theuser can visually recognize that the lock mechanism is presently in theunlocked state.

Next, explanation is given of a case where first unit 100 is attached tosocket 400, to which first unit 100 is not attached. When first unit 100is inserted into socket 400, plane 123 b of protection member 123 offirst unit 100 abuts on the upper end of rotating shaft 443 b ofengaging member 443. Then, when first unit 100 is further inserted intosocket 400, plane 123 b of protection member 123 abuts on the upper endof rotating shaft 443 b of engaging member 443, thereby pressingengaging member 443 downward. Then, when fitting projection 443 j ofengaging member 443 is pressed down from a position of first fittingrecess 431 e to a position of second fitting recess 431 f of supportmember 431, that is, when engaging member 443 is pressed down to thefirst axial center direction position, fitting between fittingprojection 443 j of engaging member 443 and second fitting recess 431 fof support member 431 is released. With this configuration, rotationregulation of engaging member 443 is released, and engaging member 443is rotatable around the rotating axial center within first fittingrecess 431 e. Further, since engaging member 443 is rotatable, couplingmember 433 whose grooves 433 a, 433 b are engaged with engaging shafts443 g of engaging member 443 can be moved in the width direction of thedevice. Here, as mentioned above, coupling member 433 is biased (pulled)by first spring 434 to the first position side of operating member 420.Accordingly, coupling member 433 and operating member 420 coupled tocoupling member 433 are moved to the first position side, and engagingmember 443 is rotated to the first rotational position by the movementof coupling member 433. As a result, as shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B,engaging projection 443 a of engaging member 443 engages with engagementrecess 121 b of engageable part 110 of first unit 100. With thisconfiguration, first unit 100 is locked to socket 400.

Here, when the user attaches first unit 100 to socket 400, there may bea case where one end side in the extending direction of lower side 100Sof first unit 100 is sufficiently inserted into socket 400, whileanother end side is not sufficiently inserted. In this case, engagingmember 443 on another end side is not pressed down by plane 123 b ofprotection member 123 of first unit 100. Accordingly, the engagementbetween fitting projection 443 j of engaging member 443 on the other endside and second fitting recess 431 f of support member 431 is notreleased. As a result, engaging member 443 on the other end side cannotbe rotated. Hence, coupling member 433 and operating member 420 coupledto coupling member 433 are not moved to the first position side.Therefore, the user can visually recognize that first unit 100 is notlocked to socket 400 based on a fact that operating member 420 is notmoved to the first position side. As a result, it is expected that theuser would appropriately insert first unit 100 into socket 400. Withthis configuration, electronic device 1 is prevented from being carriedout while first unit 100 and socket 400 are not sufficiently locked.

1-3. Shock Dispersion Structure

In a case where the electronic device falls in the state in which lowerside 100S of first unit 100 is housed in socket 400 of second unit 200,a load of first unit 100 and a shock caused by vibrations of first unit100 within socket 400 are concentrated on a portion of socket 400coupled to hinge 500 and a portion nearby. Accordingly, socket 400 canbe deformed. In order to suppress such deformation, electronic device 1of the present exemplary embodiment provides a structure capable ofsuppressing deformation of socket 400 caused by a shock of falling orthe like.

FIG. 22 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion near hinge 500 ofsecond unit 200. FIG. 23B is a view seen in a direction of arrow K inFIG. 2B (simplified). FIG. 24A is a sectional view taken along line24A-24A in FIG. 23A. FIG. 24B is a sectional view taken along line24B-24B in FIG. 23A.

As shown in FIGS. 22 and 24A, socket side first fitting part 411 isformed on principal surface 400 a on the front side of socket 400 nearhinge 500. Socket side first fitting part 411 is constituted as aprojection that protrudes from principal surface 400 a of socket 400.Socket side first fitting part 411 is formed in a circular shape in afront view. Socket side first fitting part 411 has a trapezoidalsectional shape.

Further, input unit side first fitting part 311 is formed on principalsurface 300 a of input unit 300. Input unit side first fitting part 311is formed so as to fit with socket side first fitting part 411 of socket400 in a state in which principal surface 300 a of input unit 300 andprincipal surface 400 a of socket 400 are substantially parallel to eachother. Input unit side first fitting part 311 is constituted so as tohave a recess capable of fitting to socket side first fitting part 411.Input unit side first fitting part 311 is formed in a circular shape ina front view.

As shown in FIGS. 22 and 24B, socket side second fitting part 412 isformed on principal surface 400 a of socket 400 in the vicinity of hinge500. Socket side second fitting part 412 is constituted as a protrusionthat protrudes from principal surface 400 a of socket 400. Socket sidesecond fitting part 412 is formed in a rectangular shape in a frontview. Socket side second fitting part 412 has a trapezoidal sectionalshape.

Further, input unit side second fitting part 312 is formed on principalsurface 300 a of input unit 300. Input unit side second fitting part 312is formed so as to fit with socket side second fitting part 412 ofsocket 400 in the state in which principal surface 300 a of input unit300 and principal surface 400 a of socket 400 are substantially parallelto each other. Input unit side second fitting part 312 is constituted soas to have a recess capable of fitting to socket side second fittingpart 412. Input unit side second fitting part 312 is formed in arectangular shape in a front view.

FIG. 23A is a view seen in a direction of arrow J in FIG. 2B(simplified). As shown in FIGS. 23A and 1, socket side first fittingpart 411 and socket side second fitting part 412, and input unit sidefirst fitting part 311 and input unit side second fitting part 312 areprovided corresponding to right and left hinges 500.

It should be noted that, in the present exemplary embodiment, as shownin FIG. 1, right and left first unit side fitting parts 131 are formedon principal surface 100 a of first unit 100 near an upper side (asecond predetermined side of the first unit) parallel to lower side100S. First unit side fitting part 131 is constituted as a projectionthat protrudes from principal surface 100 a of first unit 100. Firstunit side fitting part 131 is formed in a circular shape in a frontview. First unit side fitting part 131 has a trapezoidal sectionalshape.

Further, input unit side third fitting part 313 is formed on principalsurface 300 a of input unit 300. Input unit side third fitting part 313is formed so as to fit with first unit side fitting part 131 of firstunit 100 in a state in which principal surface 300 a of input unit 300and principal surface 100 a of first unit 100 are substantially parallelto each other. Input unit side third fitting part 313 is constituted soas to have a recess capable of fitting to first unit side fitting part131. Input unit side third fitting part 313 is formed in a circularshape in a front view.

Action

As an example, explanation is given of a case where electronic device 1falls, for example in a state where hinge 500 side faces down, whenlower side 100S of first unit 100 is housed in socket 400 of second unit200 and first unit 100 and second unit 200 are closed.

In the present exemplary embodiment, as mentioned above, in the state inwhich principal surface 300 a of input unit 300 and principal surface400 a of socket 400 are substantially parallel to each other, input unitside first fitting part 311 and input unit side second fitting part 312on principal surface 300 a of input unit 300 are respectively fit tosocket side first fitting part 411 and socket side second fitting part412 of socket 400. Accordingly, in the case where electronic device 1falls in a state where lower side 100S of first unit 100 is housed insocket 400 of second unit 200, the load of first unit 100 and the shockcaused by vibrations of first unit 100 within socket 400 are dispersedto second unit 200 through socket side first fitting part 411, socketside second fitting part 412, input unit side first fitting part 311,and input unit side second fitting part 312. As a result, the shockapplied to the portion of socket 400 coupled to hinge 500 and theportion nearby is reduced. Hence, deformation of socket 400 caused bythe shock is suppressed.

Further, in the present exemplary embodiment, the load of first unit 100and the shock caused by vibrations of first unit 100 within socket 400are dispersed to second unit 200 through socket side first fitting part411, socket side second fitting part 412, input unit side first fittingpart 311 and input unit side second fitting part 312. Socket side firstfitting part 411 and input unit side first fitting part 311, and socketside second fitting part 412 and input unit side second fitting part 312are respectively disposed on both sides of hinge 500. As a result, theshock applied to the portion of socket 400 coupled to hinge 500 and theportion nearby is further reduced. Hence, deformation of socket 400caused by the shock is further suppressed.

In this case, socket 400 is supported by two hinges 500 in the presentexemplary embodiment. Socket side first fitting part 411 and socket sidesecond fitting part 412, and input unit side first fitting part 311 andinput unit side second fitting part 312 are provided corresponding totwo hinges 500. Accordingly, the shock applied to these portions ofsocket 400 coupled to respective hinges 500 and the portions nearby canbe reduced. Hence, even in the case where socket 400 is supported by twohinges 500, deformation of the socket caused by the shock can besuppressed.

Moreover, in the present exemplary embodiment, the load of first unit100 and the shock caused by vibrations of first unit 100 within socket400 are dispersed to second unit 200 through not only socket side firstfitting part 411 and input unit side first fitting part 311, and socketside second fitting part 412 and input unit side second fitting part 312that are respectively disposed on both sides of hinge 500, but alsofirst unit side fitting part 131 and input unit side third fitting part313. As a result, the shock applied to the portion of socket 400 coupledto hinge 500 and the portion nearby is further reduced. Hence,deformation of socket 400 caused by the shock can be further suppressed.

Particularly, as seen in FIGS. 23A and 23B, the fitting structure isconstituted in each of vicinity of four corners of principal surface 300a of input unit 300. Accordingly, relative rotation of input unit 300and first unit 100 around an axis perpendicular to these principalsurfaces 100 a, 300 a is suppressed. With this configuration, twistingforce applied to socket 400 is also suppressed, and deformation ofsocket 400 can be further suppressed.

Another Example

In the example, the respective socket side fitting parts are constitutedby the projections, and the respective input unit side fitting parts areconstituted by the recesses. However, the respective socket side fittingparts may be constituted by the recesses, and the respective input unitside fitting parts may be constituted by the projections.

1-4. Drainage Structure of Socket

There is a request for using the electronic device having the socketoutdoors. However, in a case where the electronic device having thesocket is used outdoors in rainy weather or the like in a state in whichfirst unit 100 is detached from second unit 200, water may beaccumulated inside the socket. The present exemplary embodiment provideselectronic device 1 capable of suppressing accumulation of water in thesocket.

FIGS. 25A and 25B are views for explaining a through-hole for drainingwater of socket 400 of electronic device 1 according to the presentexemplary embodiment. Specifically, FIG. 25A is a perspective view ofsocket 400 as seen from a bottom side, and FIG. 25B is a plan view ofsingle socket body 410 as seen from an opening end side. FIG. 26 is asectional view taken along line 26-26 in FIG. 25B.

As mentioned above, socket 400 has bottomed socket body 410 that openson the side in which lower side 100S of first unit 100 is housed. Socketbody 410 is provided with through-holes 410 h, 410 j, 410 k for drainingwater that establish communication between an outside and an inside ofsocket body 410.

Specifically, socket body 410 has bottom 410 x that connects first outerwall 410 a and second outer wall 410 b. A cross section of bottom wall410 e perpendicular to the extending direction of socket body 410 has ashape of a portion of a polygonal tube. Specifically, bottom 410 x hasbottom wall 410 e substantially perpendicular to first outer wall 410 aand second outer wall 410 b, first inclined wall 410 f that connectsbottom wall 410 e and first outer wall 410 a, and second inclined wall410 g that connects bottom wall 410 e and second outer wall 410 b. Also,through-holes 410 h, 410 j, 410 k for draining water are respectivelyprovided on bottom wall 410 e, first inclined wall 410 f, and secondinclined wall 410 g. Further, through-holes 410 h, 410 j, 410 k fordraining water are provided on each of one end side and another end sidein the extending direction of socket 400.

Action

Action by electronic device 1 in the present exemplary embodiment isexplained. FIGS. 27A to 27C are views for explaining the action bythrough-holes 410 h, 410 j, 410 k for draining water of socket 400 ofelectronic device 1 according to the present exemplary embodiment. Itshould be noted that illustration of various members, such as theaforementioned lock mechanism, housed in socket body 410 is omitted.

In a case where electronic device 1 is used outdoors in rainy weather orthe like in a state in which first unit 100 is detached from second unit200, water may enter inside socket 400 through a gap between socket body410 and the respective members that configure socket 400. In this case,for example, as shown in FIG. 27A, when the up and down direction ofsocket body 410 is substantially vertical, water W entered inside socket400 can be discharged to outside of socket 400 via all through-holes 410h, 410 j, 410 k.

On the other hand, for example, as shown in FIG. 27B, when the up anddown direction of socket body 410 is inclined toward the front surfaceside in the thickness direction with respect to a substantially verticaldirection, water W entered inside socket 400 can be discharged to theoutside of socket 400 via through-hole 410 j on first inclined wall 410f.

Meanwhile, for example, as shown in FIG. 27C, when the up and downdirection of socket body 410 is inclined toward the back surface side inthe thickness direction with respect to the substantially verticaldirection, water W entered inside socket 400 can be drained to outsideof socket 400 via through-hole 410 k on second inclined wall 410 g.

In this way, in the present exemplary embodiment, even in a case wheresocket body 410 is inclined with respect to the vertical direction, thewater inside socket 400 is discharged through any of a plurality ofthrough-holes 410 h, 410 j, 410 k. Hence, even in a case where waterenters inside socket body 410 while the user keeps socket 400 inclined,drainage can be performed appropriately.

Further, in the present exemplary embodiment, through-holes 410 h, 410j, 410 k are provided on each of the one end side and the other end sidein the extending direction of socket 400. Accordingly, even in a casewhere electronic device 1 is used in a state in which heights on the oneend side and the other end side in the extending direction of socket 400are different, for example, second unit 200 of electronic device 1 isnot used in a horizontal state, drainage can be performed via thethrough-holes on either the one end side and the other end side locatedat a lower position. Hence, even in a case where input unit 300 (secondunit 200) is not used in the horizontal state, drainage can be performedappropriately.

Another Example

In the example, the cross section of bottom wall 410 e perpendicular tothe extending direction of socket body 410 has the shape of the portionof the polygonal tube, and the plurality of through-holes 410 h, 410 j,410 k are provided on bottom wall 410 e separately in the directionperpendicular to the extending direction of socket body 410. However,the present disclosure is not limited to the configuration. For example,the cross section of bottom wall 410 e perpendicular to the extendingdirection of socket body 410 may have an arc shape, and the plurality ofthrough-holes may be provided on bottom wall 410 e separately in thedirection perpendicular to the extending direction of socket body 410.

1-5. Drainage Structure of Antenna Connector

There is a request for connecting an external antenna to the electronicdevice having the configuration. In this case, it is necessary toprovide a connector for external antenna connection (hereinafterappropriately referred to as the “antenna connector”) in the electronicdevice. In a case where the antenna connector is provided in socket 400such that a connection end is directed upward in an exposed state, whenthe electronic device is used outdoors in rainy weather or the like in astate in which the first unit is detached, water can be accumulatedinside the antenna connector of socket 400. The present exemplaryembodiment provides the electronic device capable of suppressingaccumulation of water in socket 400. The present exemplary embodimentprovides an antenna connector in which water is hardly accumulated andelectronic device 1 provided with the antenna connector.

As shown in FIG. 7A, antenna connector 600 is mounted to mounting hole431 x formed at support member 431 of socket 400. Antenna connector 600can be connected to antenna connector 140 of first unit 100 (see FIG.4).

FIG. 28A is a perspective view, as seen from a connection end side, ofantenna connector 600 in electronic device 1 according to the presentexemplary embodiment. FIG. 28B is a perspective view, as seen from base611 b side, of antenna connector 600 in electronic device 1 according tothe present exemplary embodiment. FIG. 29 is a longitudinal sectionalview of antenna connector 600 in electronic device 1 according to thepresent exemplary embodiment. FIG. 30 is a cross sectional view ofantenna connector 600 in electronic device 1 according to the presentexemplary embodiment.

Antenna connector 600 has tubular case 611. External contact part 611 ais formed on one end side of case 611, base 611 b for mounting antennaconnector 600 to socket 400 of the electronic device is formed onanother end side, and mounting flange 611 s is formed between externalcontact part 611 a and base 611 b.

Case 611 houses inside, from a center side, shaft-shaped center contactpart 610, tubular insulators 613, 614, 622, O-ring 623, support cylinder616, protection cylinder 615, spring 620, O-ring 621, and base 619.

Center contact part 610 has contact support cylinder 625, movable centercontact 612, spring 618, and fixed center contact 617. Movable centercontact 612 is housed in contact support cylinder 625 so as to bemovable in the axial direction, and is biased to outside by spring 618.Fixed center contact 617 is fixed to a lower end of contact supportcylinder 625.

Support cylinder 616 supports center contact part 610 via insulators613, 614, 622. Waterproof O-ring 623 is disposed between insulators 613,614 and insulator 622 in the axial direction.

Ring-shaped protrusion 616 a is provided at an axial directionintermediate part of support cylinder 616.

Protection cylinder 615 is supported by case 611 so as to be movable inthe axial direction, and is biased to the outside by spring 620.

Base stand 619 has through-hole 619 a penetrating in the axialdirection. One end side of support cylinder 616 is fitted intothrough-hole 619 a. Base 611 b of case 611 is fitted to an outerperipheral surface of base stand 619. Waterproof O-ring 621 is disposedbetween an inner end of base stand 619, base 611 b of case 611, andprotrusion 616 a of support cylinder 616.

Here, in the present exemplary embodiment, space T is formed betweensupport cylinder 616 that houses insulators 613, 614, 622 and externalcontact part 611 a of case 611. Space T is formed to disposeabove-described spring 620. Further, gaps Y1, Y2 are respectively formedbetween protection cylinder 615 and support cylinder 616 and betweenprotection cylinder 615 and external contact part 611 a in a radialdirection. Gaps Y1, Y2 are formed to allow movement of protectioncylinder 615 in the axial direction.

In such a configuration, as shown in FIG. 29, when external contact part611 a side of antenna connector 600 is directed upward in the verticaldirection, water can enter into space T through gaps Y1, Y2 duringrainfall or the like. When the water enters into space T, an electricimpedance characteristic of antenna connector 600 may be changed to arated characteristic. The change in the characteristic may have anadverse influence on transmission/reception of a radio signal.Therefore, in the present exemplary embodiment, through-hole 611 c fordraining water is formed at external contact part 611 a of case 611 todrain entered water.

Specifically, through-hole 611 c is formed at external contact part 611a near base 611 b. Through-hole 611 c is formed to drain the waterentered into space T while an amount of water is small.

Further, a plurality of through-holes 611 c are formed at externalcontact part 611 a separately in a circumferential direction. Here, inelectronic device 1 of the present exemplary embodiment, antennaconnector 600 is mounted to rotatable socket 400. Accordingly, whensocket 400 is rotated, antenna connector 600 is also inclined to thevertical direction. Further, mounting of electronic device 1 is notlimited to a horizontal surface. In this case as well, antenna connector600 is inclined with respect to the vertical direction. Therefore, inthe present exemplary embodiment, even when antenna connector 600 isinclined with respect to the vertical direction, water is drainedthrough any of through-holes 611 c.

Action

FIG. 31 is a view for explaining action of antenna connector 600 inelectronic device 1 according to the present exemplary embodiment. It isassumed that rainfall or the like occurs when external contact part 611a side of antenna connector 600 is directed upward in the verticaldirection, and rainwater enters into space T through gaps Y1, Y2. Inthis case, as shown by arrows, the water is drained from space T to theoutside of external contact part 611 a via through-holes 611 c fordraining water.

Further, in a case where antenna connector 600 is inclined with respectto the vertical direction, the water within space T between externalcontact part 611 a and insulators 613, 614, 622 is discharged viathrough-hole 611 c located at a lowest position out of the plurality ofthrough-holes 611 c for draining water. Hence, even in the case wheresecond unit 200 is not used in the horizontal state, drainage can beperformed appropriately.

Further, since through-hole 611 c is formed at external contact part 611a near base 611 b, accumulation of water within space T between externalcontact part 611 a and insulators 613, 614, 622 is suppressed as much aspossible.

As described above, according to antenna connector 600 of the presentexemplary embodiment, even in a case where an angle of socket 400 or anangle of a mounting surface is changed, the water within space T betweenexternal contact part 611 a and insulators 613, 614, 622 isappropriately discharged. As a result, the electric impedancecharacteristic of antenna connector 600 can be properly maintained atthe rated characteristic.

Another Example

In the exemplary embodiment, four through-holes 611 c are formedseparately in the circumferential direction. However, in the presentdisclosure, one to three or five or more through-holes 611 c may beformed. Further, the plurality of through-holes 611 c may be formedseparately in the axial direction of antenna connector 600. Further, ashape of through-hole 611 c can be any shape including an ellipticalshape, a polygonal shape, and the like instead of the circular shape.

2. Effects 2-1. Lock Mechanism

Electronic device 1 of the present exemplary embodiment includes firstunit 100 having a first electronic member and second unit 200 having asecond electronic member, and is constructed such that first unit 100and second unit 200 are detachable.

First unit 100 has first engageable part 110 and second engageable part110 provided separately from each other.

Second unit 200 has the lock mechanism capable of locking first unit 100in an attached state.

The lock mechanism includes operating member 420, first engaging member443, second engaging member 443, and drive mechanism 430. Operatingmember 420 is movable between the first position and the secondposition. First engaging member 443 is engageable with first engageablepart 110 and movable to the first axial center direction position (afirst predetermined position). Second engaging member 443 is engageablewith second engageable part 110 and movable to the first axial centerdirection position (a second predetermined position). Drive mechanism430 engages first and second engaging members 443 and first and secondengageable parts 110 when operating member 420 is located at the firstposition. Drive mechanism 430 releases the engagement of first andsecond engaging members 443 and first and second engageable parts 110when operating member 420 is located at the second position.

When operating member 420 is located at the second position, in a casewhere first engaging member 443 and second engaging member 443 arerespectively moved to the first axial center direction position (thefirst predetermined position) and the first axial center directionposition (the second predetermined position), drive mechanism 430 movesoperating member 420 from the second position to the first position. Ina case where at least one of first engaging member 443 and secondengaging member 443 is not moved to the first axial center directionposition (the first predetermined position) or the first axial centerdirection position (the second predetermined position), drive mechanism430 does not move operating member 420 from the second position to thefirst position.

According to the present exemplary embodiment, when first unit 100 isattached to socket 400 of second unit 200 while operating member 420 islocated at the second position, in a case where both of engaging members443 are moved to the first axial center direction positions, operatingmember 420 is moved from the second position to the first position. In acase where at least one of two engaging members 443 is not moved to thefirst axial center direction position, operating member 420 is not movedfrom the second position to the first position. Therefore, the user canvisually recognize that first unit 100 is not locked to second unit 200based on a fact that operating member 420 is not moved to the firstposition side. As a result, it is expected that the user wouldappropriately attach first unit 100 to second unit 200. With thisconfiguration, electronic device 1 is prevented from being carried whilefirst unit 100 and second unit 200 are insufficiently locked.

In the electronic device of the present exemplary embodiment, engagingmember 443 is provided in second unit 200 so as to protrude to theoutside from the upper surface of base plate 431 a of second unit 200(the predetermined surface of the second unit). Engaging member 443 isrotatable around rotating axial center RC perpendicular to the uppersurface of base plate 431 a.

Operating member 420 is linearly movable between the first position andthe second position in the predetermined direction in second unit 200.

Drive mechanism 430 further has first spring 434 (a second biasingmember) that biases operating member 420 to the first position side inthe predetermined direction.

Drive mechanism 430 rotates each engaging member 443 to the firstrotational position when operating member 420 is moved to the firstposition. Drive mechanism 430 rotates each engaging member 443 to thesecond rotational position when operating member 420 is moved to thesecond position. In this manner, drive mechanism 430 converts the linearmovement of operating member 420 between the first position and thesecond position into the rotation of each engaging member 443 betweenthe first rotational position and the second rotational position.

Each engaging member 443 has the pair of engaging projections 443 aacross rotating axial center RC.

Each engageable part 110 has the pair of engagement recesses 121 b. Thepair of engagement recesses 121 b engages with the pair of engagingprojections 443 a when each engaging member 443 is located at the firstrotational position. The engagement with the pair of engagingprojections 443 a is released when each engaging member 443 is locatedat the second rotational position.

Each engaging member 443 is configured so as to be movable between thefirst axial center direction position and the second axial centerdirection position in the rotating axial center direction of eachengaging member 443. Each engaging member 443 further has fittingprojection 443 j at the second axial center direction position in therotating axial center direction. Each fitting projection 443 j is fittedinto second fitting recess 431 f of second unit 200 and regulatesrotation of engaging member 443 when each engaging member 443 is locatedat the second axial center direction position and at the secondrotational position. Each fitting projection 443 j releases the fittinginto second fitting recess 431 f and allows rotation of engaging member443 when each engaging member 443 is located at the first axial centerdirection position.

Drive mechanism 430 further has second spring 451 that biases eachengaging member 443 to the second axial center direction position sidein the rotating axial center direction so as to correspond to eachengaging member 443. When first unit 100 is attached to second unit 200,rotating shaft 443 b of each engaging member 443 abuts on plane 123 b (apredetermined area) of engageable part 110 of first unit 100, andengaging member 443 is moved to the first axial center directionposition against the biasing force of second spring 451.

According to the present exemplary embodiment, engaging member 443 canbe rotated around rotating axial center RC by an operation of operatingmember 420, and further, the pair of engaging projections 443 a providedacross rotating axial center RC can be engaged with the pair ofengagement recesses 121 b of engageable part 110. In this way, thepresent exemplary embodiment employs the structure in which the pair ofengaging projections 443 a provided across rotating axial center RC inengaging member 443 is rotated and engaged with the pair of engagementrecesses 121 b of engageable part 110. Accordingly, in a state in whichengaging projections 443 a are engaged with engagement recesses 121 b,both engaging projections 443 a and engagement recesses 121 b arerelatively moved due to application of some force to first unit 100 inany direction of a front and rear direction, a right and left direction,and an up and down direction. As a result, strength of engagementbetween one engaging projection 443 a and one engagement recess 121 b isrelaxed. Even in this case, strength of engagement between otherengaging projection 443 a and other engagement recess 121 b is enhanced.In other words, even in a case where some force is applied to first unit100 in any direction of the front and rear direction, the right and leftdirection, and the up and down direction, strength of engagement of thelock mechanism as a whole is kept almost constant. Therefore, even in acase where force is applied to first unit 100 in any direction, anengaged state can be stabilized.

Further, when first unit 100 is attached to socket 400 of second unit200 while operating member 420 is located at the second position, in acase where both of engaging members 443 are moved to the first axialcenter direction positions, operating member 420 is moved from thesecond position to the first position. In a case where at least one oftwo engaging members 443 is not moved to the first axial centerdirection position, operating member 420 is not moved from the secondposition to the first position. Such movement can be realized by usingup and down motions of engaging members 443.

In the present exemplary embodiment, engaging member 443 has engagingshaft 443 g provided at a position different from rotating axial centerRC in the radial direction and extending parallel to rotating axialcenter RC. Drive mechanism 430 has coupling member 433 fixed tooperating member 420 and supported in socket body 410 (a predeterminedcasing) of second unit 200 so as to be movable in the moving directionof operating member 420. Coupling member 433 includes groove 433 a (433b), with which engaging shaft 443 g of engaging member 443 is engagedrelatively movably.

Groove 433 a (433 b) is formed in a meandering manner. When operatingmember 420 is moved to the first position, groove 433 a (433 b) rotatesengaging member 443 around rotating axial center RC to the firstrotational position. When operating member 420 is moved to the secondposition, groove 433 a (433 b) rotates engaging member 443 aroundrotating axial center RC to the second rotational position.

With this simple configuration, the linear movement of operating member420 can be converted into the rotational movement of engaging member443.

In the present exemplary embodiment, second unit 200 is provided withspring 451 (a third biasing member) that biases first unit 100 attachedto second unit 200 to the second axial center direction position side inrotating axial center RC direction of each engaging member 443.

With this configuration, each engaging member 443 can be biased to thesecond axial center direction position side in rotating axial center RCdirection. Accordingly, the disengaged state can be maintained.

In the present exemplary embodiment, spring 451 (the third biasingmember) is connector pin 461 (the pin) of connector 460 for giving andreceiving an electric signal and/or electric power between second unit200 and first unit 100.

With this configuration, the biasing member can be configured by usingconnector 460.

In the present exemplary embodiment, second unit 200 includes input unit300 having keyboard 301, socket 400 capable of housing lower side 100Sof first unit 100, and hinge 500 that couples rear side 300S (thepredetermined side) of input unit 300 to lower side 400S (thepredetermined side) of socket 400 such that input unit 300 and socket400 are relatively rotatable.

The upper surface of base plate 431 a of second unit 200 (thepredetermined surface of the second unit) is a surface of socket 400that faces lower side 100S of first unit 100 when lower side 100S offirst unit 100 is housed in socket 400.

With this configuration, first unit 100 and second unit 200 arerelatively movable, and the aforementioned effects are achieved in suchelectronic device 1.

In the present exemplary embodiment, drive mechanism 430 is housed in aninternal space of socket 400.

With this configuration, drive mechanism 430 can be disposed byeffectively using the internal space of socket 400.

In the present exemplary embodiment, first unit 100 is the tablet typecomputer.

In the tablet type computer, it is often requested that input unit 300having the keyboard and the like is detachable to enhance efficiency ofcharacter input or the like. Further, the tablet type computerincorporates a central processing unit (CPU), a volatile storage (RAM),a nonvolatile storage (ROM, SSD, or the like), a battery, and the like,thereby increasing weight. According to the present exemplaryembodiment, even in a case where first unit 100 is a tablet typecomputer, the strongly lockable lock mechanism can be provided, and theengaging state can be stabilized in the lock mechanism that locks thetablet type computer.

2-2. Shock Dispersion Structure

Electronic device 1 of the present exemplary embodiment includes firstunit 100 having the display and second unit 200 having the input part,and is constructed such that first unit 100 and second unit 200 aredetachable.

Second unit 200 includes input unit 300 having principal surface 300 aprovided with the input part, socket 400 capable of housing lower side100S of first unit 100, and hinge 500 that couples rear side 300S (thepredetermined side) of input unit 300 to lower side 400S (thepredetermined side) of socket 400 such that input unit 300 and socket400 are relatively rotatable. Principal surface 300 a of input unit 300and principal surface 400 a of socket 400 are substantially parallel toeach other by relatively rotating input unit 300 and socket 400. Socketside first fitting part 411 and socket side second fitting part 412,which constitute one shape of a recess and a projection, are formed onprincipal surface 400 a of socket 400 near hinge 500. Input unit sidefirst fitting part 311 and input unit side second fitting part 312,which constitute another shape of the recess and the projection, areformed on principal surface 300 a of input unit 300. Input unit sidefirst fitting part 311 and input unit side second fitting part 312 areformed so as to fit to socket side first fitting part 411 and socketside second fitting part 412 of socket 400 in the state in whichprincipal surface 300 a of input unit 300 and principal surface 400 a ofsocket 400 are substantially parallel to each other.

According to the present exemplary embodiment, in the state in whichprincipal surface 300 a of input unit 300 and principal surface 400 a ofsocket 400 are substantially parallel to each other, input unit sidefirst fitting part 311 and input unit side second fitting part 312 onprincipal surface 300 a of input unit 300 are respectively fit to socketside first fitting part 411 and socket side second fitting part 412 ofsocket 400. Accordingly, in a case where electronic device 1 falls inthe state where lower side 100S of first unit 100 is housed in socket400 of second unit 200, the load of first unit 100 and the shock causedby vibrations of first unit 100 within socket 400 can be dispersed tosecond unit 200 through socket side first fitting part 411 and socketside second fitting part 412, and input unit side first fitting part 311and input unit side second fitting part 312. As a result, the shockapplied to the portion of socket 400 coupled to hinge 500 and theportion nearby can be reduced. Hence, deformation of socket 400 causedby the shock can be suppressed.

In the present exemplary embodiment, socket side first fitting part 411and socket side second fitting part 412 are respectively formed oneither side of hinge 500 in the rotating axial center direction of hinge500 on principal surface 400 a of socket 400. Input unit side firstfitting parts 311 and input unit side second fitting parts 312 areformed, on principal surface 300 a of input unit 300, so as to fit tosocket side first fitting parts 411 and socket side second fitting parts412 of socket 400 in the state in which principal surface 300 a of inputunit 300 and principal surface 400 a of socket 400 are substantiallyparallel to each other.

With this configuration, in a case where electronic device 1 falls whenlower side 100S of first unit 100 is housed in socket 400 of second unit200, the load of first unit 100 and the shock caused by vibrations offirst unit 100 within socket 400 can be dispersed to second unit 200through socket side first fitting part 411 and socket side secondfitting part 412, and input unit side first fitting part 311 and inputunit side second fitting part 312 respectively formed on either side ofhinge 500. As a result, the shock applied to the portion of socket 400coupled to hinge 500 and the portion nearby can be further reduced.Hence, deformation of socket 400 caused by the shock can be furthersuppressed.

In the present exemplary embodiment, two hinges 500 are providedseparately in input unit 300 in the width direction of the device.Socket side first fitting part 411 and socket side second fitting part412, and input unit side first fitting part 311 and input unit sidesecond fitting part 312 are provided corresponding to each hinge 500.

With this configuration, in a case where socket 400 is supported by twohinges 500, the shock applied to the portion of socket 400 coupled toeach hinge 500 and the portion nearby can be reduced. Hence, even in thecase where socket 400 is supported by two hinges 500, deformation ofsocket 400 caused by the shock can be suppressed.

In the present exemplary embodiment, first unit 100 includes principalsurface 100 a provided with the display. Principal surface 100 a offirst unit 100 and principal surface 300 a of input unit 300 aresubstantially parallel to each other by relatively rotating input unit300 and socket 400 in the state in which lower side 100S of first unit100 is housed in socket 400. First unit side fitting part 131, whichconstitutes one shape of a second recess and a second projection, isformed on principal surface 100 a of first unit 100 near the upper side(the second predetermined side) parallel to lower side 100S. Input unitside third fitting part 313, which constitutes another shape of thesecond recess and the second projection, is formed on principal surface300 a of input unit 300 so as to fit to first unit side fitting part 131of first unit 100 in the state in which principal surface 100 a of firstunit 100 and principal surface 300 a of input unit 300 are substantiallyparallel to each other.

With this configuration, in the case where electronic device 1 fallswhen lower side 100S of first unit 100 is housed in socket 400 of secondunit 200, the load of first unit 100 and the shock caused by vibrationsof first unit 100 within socket 400 can be dispersed to second unit 200through not only socket side first fitting part 411 and socket sidesecond fitting part 412, and input unit side first fitting part 311 andinput unit side second fitting part 312 that are respectively disposedon either side of hinge 500, but also first unit side fitting part 131and input unit side third fitting part 313. As a result, the shockapplied to the portion of socket 400 coupled to hinge 500 and theportion nearby can be further reduced. Hence, deformation of socket 400caused by the shock can be further suppressed.

2-3. Drainage Structure of Socket

Electronic device 1 of the present exemplary embodiment includes firstunit 100 having display 101 and second unit 200 having the input part,and is constructed such that first unit 100 and second unit 200 aredetachable.

Second unit 200 includes socket 400 capable of housing lower side 100Sof first unit 100. Socket 400 has bottomed socket body 410 that opens onthe side in which lower side 100S (the predetermined side) of first unit100 is housed. Socket body 410 is provided with through-holes 410 h, 410j, 410 k for draining water that establish communication between theoutside and the inside of socket body 410.

According to the present exemplary embodiment, even in a case wherewater enters inside bottomed socket body 410 included in electronicdevice 1, the entered water can be discharged to the outside of socketbody 410 via through-holes 410 h, 410 j, 410 k for draining water. Withthis configuration, accumulation of water inside socket body 410 can besuppressed.

In the present exemplary embodiment, second unit 200 includes socket400, input unit 300 provided with the input part, and hinge 500 thatcouples rear side 300S (the predetermined side) of input unit 300 tolower side 400S (the predetermined side) of socket 400 such that inputunit 300 and socket 400 are relatively rotatable. Socket body 410 isextended in the direction substantially parallel to the rotating axialcenter of hinge 500. Socket body 410 has first outer wall 410 asubstantially parallel to the rotating axial center, second outer wall410 b substantially parallel to first outer wall 410 a, and bottom wall410 e that connects first outer wall 410 a and second outer wall 410 b.The plurality of through-holes 410 h, 410 j, 410 k are providedseparately on bottom wall 410 e in the direction perpendicular to theextending direction of socket body 410.

With this configuration, even in a case where input unit 300 and socket400 are relatively rotatable and socket 400 is not perpendicular to butis inclined with respect to a horizontal direction, the water withinsocket 400 is drained through any of the plurality of through-holes 410h, 410 j, 410 k. Hence, even in a case where water enters inside socketbody 410 while the user keeps socket 400 inclined, drainage can beperformed appropriately.

In the present exemplary embodiment, the cross section of bottom wall410 e perpendicular to the extending direction of socket body 410 hasthe shape of the portion of the polygonal tube.

With this configuration, even in a case where first unit 100 is rotatedat various angles, drainage can be performed appropriately.

In the present exemplary embodiment, socket body 410 is extended in thedirection substantially parallel to the rotating axial center of hinge500. Through-holes 410 h, 410 j, 410 k are provided on each of the oneend side and the other end side in the extending direction of socket400.

With this configuration, in other words, even in a case where electronicdevice 1 is used in a state in which heights on the one end side and theother end side in the extending direction of socket 400 are different,for example, second unit 200 is not used in the horizontal state,drainage can be performed through the through-holes on either the oneend side and the other end side located at the lower position. Hence,even in the case where second unit 200 is not used in the horizontalstate, drainage can be performed appropriately.

It should be noted that, in the exemplary embodiment, the cross sectionof bottom wall 410 e perpendicular to the extending direction of socketbody 410 has the shape of the portion of the polygonal tube, and thatthe plurality of through-holes 410 h, 410 j, 410 k are provided onbottom wall 410 e separately in the direction perpendicular to theextending direction of socket body 410. However, the present disclosureis not limited to the configuration. For example, the cross section ofbottom wall 410 e perpendicular to the extending direction of socketbody 410 may have an arc shape, and a plurality of through-holes may beprovided on bottom wall 410 e separately in the direction perpendicularto the extending direction of socket body 410.

2-4. Drainage Structure of Antenna Connector

Antenna connector 600 of the present exemplary embodiment has tubularcase 611 having base 611 b on the one end side in the axial directionand cylindrical external contact part 611 a on the other end side in theaxial direction, shaft-shaped center contact part 610 disposed on acenter shaft of external contact part 611 a, and tubular insulators 613,614, 622 disposed between external contact part 611 a and center contactpart 610. Space T is formed between external contact part 611 a andinsulators 613, 614, 622. O-ring 621 (a sealing member) is disposedbetween base 611 b and insulators 613, 614, 622. Through-hole 611 c fordraining water that establishes communication between space T and theoutside of external contact part 611 a is formed at external contactpart 611 a.

According to the present exemplary embodiment, external contact part 611a of antenna connector 600 has through-hole 611 c for draining waterthat establishes communication between space T formed between externalcontact part 611 a and insulators 613, 614, 622 and the outside ofexternal contact part 611 a. Accordingly, even in a case where waterenters into space T, the entered water is discharged via through-hole611 c for draining water. As a result, the electric characteristic ofantenna connector 600 can be favorably maintained. Further, inelectronic device 1, the electric signal can be favorably obtained viaantenna connector 600.

In the present exemplary embodiment, the plurality of through-holes 611c are formed at external contact part 611 a separately in thecircumferential direction.

With this configuration, even in a case where electronic device 1 isused while the axial direction of antenna connector 600 is inclined withrespect to the vertical direction, for example, even in the case wheresecond unit 200 is not used in the horizontal state, the water withinspace T between external contact part 611 a and insulators 613, 614, 622is discharged via through-hole 611 c located at the lowest position outof the plurality of through-holes 611 c for draining water. Hence, evenin the case where second unit 200 is not used in the horizontal state,drainage can be performed appropriately.

In the present exemplary embodiment, through-hole 611 c is formed atexternal contact part 611 a near base 611 b.

With this configuration, accumulation of water within space T betweenexternal contact part 611 a and insulators 613, 614, 622 is suppressedas much as possible.

Electronic device 1 of the present exemplary embodiment includes firstunit 100 having the display and second unit 200 having the input part.Electronic device 1 is constructed such that first unit 100 and secondunit 200 are detachable. Second unit 200 includes socket 400 capable ofhousing lower side 100S (the predetermined side) of first unit 100.Socket 400 includes antenna connector 600 of the present disclosure on asurface of a portion in which first unit 100 is housed.

With this configuration, in electronic device 1 having theconfiguration, when rainfall or the like occurs in a state in whichfirst unit 100 is not attached to socket 400, rainwater can enter intospace T between external contact part 611 a and insulators 613, 614, 622of antenna connector 600. However, the water within space T is properlydrained in this case.

In the present exemplary embodiment, in a usage state where the surfaceof recess 400 y (the portion), in which first unit 100 is housed, ofsocket 400 is directed upward, external contact part 611 a is locatedabove base 611 b in antenna connector 600.

In the usage state where the surface of recess 400 y (the portion), inwhich first unit 100 is housed, of socket 400 is directed upward, whenrainfall or the like occurs in a state in which external contact part611 a is located above base 611 b, water easily enters into space Tbetween external contact part 611 a and insulators 613, 614, 622 ofantenna connector 600. However, the water within space T is properlydrained in this case.

Other Exemplary Embodiments

As described above, the first exemplary embodiment is explained as anillustration of a technique in the present disclosure. However, thetechnique in the present disclosure is not limited to this firstexemplary embodiment, and is also applicable to exemplary embodimentsthat are appropriately changed, replaced, added, omitted, or the like.

Therefore, other exemplary embodiments are described below.

In the first exemplary embodiment, second unit 200 has input unit 300,socket 400, and hinge 500. However, a second unit is not limited tosecond unit 200. For example, the technique is also applicable to a casewhere a second unit does not have a hinge and a socket. Specifically,the second unit is an input unit having a keyboard, and the input unitincludes a receiving part capable of mounting lower side 100S of firstunit 100 on a principal surface provided with the keyboard. Apredetermined surface of the second unit may be a surface of thereceiving part that faces lower side 100S of first unit 100 when lowerside 100S of first unit 100 is mounted on the receiving part. Forexample, the predetermined surface may be an upper surface (a principalsurface provided with an input part, such as the keyboard) of the secondunit. In this case, a drive mechanism may be housed in an internal spaceof the input unit.

As above, the exemplary embodiments are described as the illustration ofthe technique in the present disclosure. For that purpose, the attacheddrawings and the detailed description are provided.

Therefore, the components mentioned in the attached drawings and thedetailed description may include not only components that are essentialfor solving the problems, but also components that are not essential forsolving the problems to illustrate the technique. Accordingly, thosenonessential components should not be immediately recognized asessential just because those nonessential components are mentioned inthe attached drawings or the detailed description.

Further, since the aforementioned exemplary embodiments illustrate thetechnique in the present disclosure, various changes, replacements,additions, omissions, or the like can be made in the claims and theirequivalents.

The present disclosure can be widely used in an electronic deviceincluding a first unit and a second unit and being constructed such thatthe first unit and the second unit are detachable.

What is claimed is:
 1. An electronic device comprising: a first unithaving a display; and a second unit having an input part, the electronicdevice being constructed such that the first unit and the second unitare detachable, wherein the second unit includes: an input unit having aprincipal surface on which the input part is disposed; a socket capableof housing a predetermined side of the first unit; and at least onehinge that couples a predetermined side of the input unit to apredetermined side of the socket such that the input unit and the socketare relatively rotatable, wherein the principal surface of the inputunit and a principal surface of the socket are substantially parallel toeach other by relatively rotating the input unit and the socket, atleast one socket side fitting part, which constitutes one shape of arecess and a projection, is formed on the principal surface of thesocket near the hinge, and at least one input unit side fitting part,which constitutes another shape of the recess and the projection, isformed on the principal surface of the input unit so as to fit to thesocket side fitting part of the socket in a state in which the principalsurface of the input unit and the principal surface of the socket aresubstantially parallel to each other.
 2. The electronic device accordingto claim 1, wherein the at least one socket side fitting part comprisesa plurality of the socket side fitting parts, the at least one inputunit side fitting part comprises a plurality of the input unit sidefitting parts, the plurality of the socket side fitting parts are formedon the principal surface of the socket respectively on both sides of thehinge in a rotating axial center direction of the hinge, and theplurality of the input unit side fitting parts are formed on theprincipal surface of the input unit so as to fit to the socket sidefitting parts of the socket in the state in which the principal surfaceof the input unit and the principal surface of the socket aresubstantially parallel to each other.
 3. The electronic device accordingto claim 1, wherein the at least one hinge comprises a pair of thehinges, the at least one socket side fitting part comprises a pluralityof the socket side fitting parts, the at least one input unit sidefitting part comprising a plurality of the input unit side fittingparts, the pair of the hinges is provided apart from each other in theinput unit in a width direction of the device, and the plurality of thesocket side fitting parts and the plurality of the input unit sidefitting parts are provided corresponding to each of the hinges.
 4. Theelectronic device according to claim 1, wherein the first unit has aprincipal surface on which the display is disposed, the principalsurface of the first unit and the principal surface of the input unitare substantially parallel to each other by relatively rotating theinput unit and the socket in a state in which the predetermined side ofthe first unit is housed in the socket, a first unit side fitting part,which constitutes one shape of a second recess and a second projection,is formed on the principal surface of the first unit near a secondpredetermined side parallel to the predetermined side, and a secondinput unit side fitting part, which constitutes another shape of thesecond recess and the second projection, is formed on the principalsurface of the input unit so as to fit to the first unit side fittingpart of the first unit in a state in which the principal surface of thefirst unit and the principal surface of the input unit are substantiallyparallel to each other.